BioLogica� is a a hypermodel for teaching high school genetics,
developed over the last four years with support from the National
Science Foundation. The software runs on both Windows and Macintosh
computers. BioLogica enables students to manipulate processes at
different, but dynamically related levels of life function. Like
its predecessor program GenScope�,
BioLogica includes tools and representations that focus on genetics.
Building on that foundation, BioLogica has developed modules and
student activities that embody increasingly elaborate models of
the parts, processes, and mechanisms of genetics. The hypermodel,
which embeds curriculum and assessment functions within a computer-based
manipulable model, is a powerful tool for the development of educational
activities that embody a model-based learning approach.

Our research is focused on what happens when we introduce BioLogica
into classrooms. We are interested in cognitive, affective, behavioral
and social effects. However, we also want to know how the teachers
and students experiences with the technology affect their
opinions with regard to what constitutes success in learning science,
what abilities, behaviors, or attitudes predispose one to such success,
and how success may be identified and measured.

Field Trials

By the end of the current school year (2000-2001), together with our collaborators
at the National Classroom, we will have piloted BioLogica in a total
of six public high schools: two urban, two suburban, and two rural.
In April we brought together a total of 24 middle school students
from three different schools on Martha�s Vineyard for a three-day
intensive trial during a school vacation week. In addition,
teachers in three middle schools and a private high school chose to
try it out in their classes. In all, nearly twenty teachers and approximately
700 students will have used various versions of BioLogica by the time
school is out.

Preliminary Findings, Updated Weekly

We are currently analyzing the data we've collected. We must stress
that analysis is still preliminary and the bulk of the data remain
to be analyzed. We expect to complete data analysis by the end of
the summer. Please click on the dates below to read our weekly
summaries.